Midwives. I think a discussion about the disenfranchisement of these important members of the community and keepers of knowledge over the last century in the US is an important topic. After getting pregnant I realized that in order to have control over my birth i would need to search far and wide for the right doctor or just go to my local midwife. The level of care a midwife provides is impeccable as well as individual; the price is a fraction of hospital care! With the growing cost of healthcare and loss of individualized care, shouldn't we all be looking at midwives?

Sent by Anna M Watson | 2:37 PM ET | 10-18-2007

I would like hear more discussion of why we went into Iraq and whether the goal of lifting oppression there was a worthwhile goal and if it would be worth accomplishing, still.
Seems the criticism is more about how we're fighting the war than whether it was a valid war. Yet, there are those who did opposed the war, who do not have much to say about the pros/cons of that initial goal.
I would like to hear some clarification of these issues.

Sent by Dena Silver | 3:40 PM ET | 10-18-2007

I recently read an AP story about parents who refuse to have their children vaccinated. I would like to hear more about that. Are there really people that stupid? They would really withhold preventative medical care from their own children?

Sent by Harold | 4:47 PM ET | 10-18-2007

Teachers in schools that have reached the corrective action or restructuring phase of NCLB need to tell what is happening at their schools. I have 23 years experience and teach in a middle school that has failed to meet AYP for three years. If we do not meet AYP this year, we will be in the Restructuring I phase. Restructing I is a phase where the PED takes over and faculty is replaced. This year we added an extra math and English class for every student - an eight period day. Our paperwork has tripled. We are good teachers and trying hard. I guess it would be good to know that we are not alone.

Sent by Shelby Brandon | 10:29 AM ET | 10-19-2007

Here in Iowa City, the big talk is about the Nov. 6 referendum on requiring the bars to only allow entrance to those 21 and older (currently, those 19 and older can enter bars, though they can't buy alcohol). Although the issue is presented as preventing binge drinking versus allowing businesses to operate, no one is talking about why binge drinking is such a problem, and whether denying access to bars will really solve the problem.

My opinion is that binge drinking is a problem in this country because it is forbidden to those under an arbitrary age. I think we should implement a licensing system similar to the driver's license, requiring education and supervision for full privledges, and suspension or revokation for certain irresponsible or illegal actions under the influence. This kind of system would change drinking from an act of rebellion to a supervised rite of passage.

But that's just my opinion. I would love to get others' opinions on what the real problem behind binge drinking is, and how we can treat the cause, instead of battling the symptoms.

Sent by Amanda | 2:46 PM ET | 10-23-2007

This is not a local issue, but am I the only one sho is tired of hearing "move forward" or "take it forward" and on and on? Can you get a linguist on to talk about this? I don't think Neal is as guilty of this as are his guests. Thanks.

Sent by Peggy Steuber | 12:40 PM ET | 10-26-2007

I live in Southeastern Idaho, near Jackson Hole Wyoming, where I used to reside.
This is an area where most folks are interested in, and respectful of, nature and its animals and plants.
That is why there is an acrimonious controversy about the National Fish and Wildlife Service and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department recently sanctioning the killing of Bison and Elk on the National Elk Refuge, a place where they have heretofore been safe, and consequently do not fear harm from humans there, making killing them there less like hunting than like "shooting fish in a barrel."
Another, related controversy concerns regulations that allow killing cougars, AKA mountain lions, using dogs, ATV's and snowmobiles to pursue them, tree them and shooting them out of the tree.
I am not against hunting, I have done it myself to put food on the table, but my opinion is that killing tame elk and bison and treed cougars disrespects the wildlife and that people who do it as well as government agencies that allow it are beneath contempt.
The wildlife management agencies say that they need to reduce the population of these animals because the ecosystem cannot support so many. The current populations, by any measure, are tiny compared to those that were here before we caucasians showed up and started slaughtering them wholesale. The ecosystem supported a much denser population of deer, elk, cougars, bears, wolves, etc. than exists today for many thousands of years before we came along, and hopefully will again after we are long gone. So no matter how they frame the argument, this wholesale killing is for the amusement and convenience of HUMANS, not for the betterment of the wildlife or the ecosystem.

Sent by William | 10:52 AM ET | 10-28-2007

Please talk about speculation on buying foreclosed homes

Sent by John | 2:35 PM ET | 10-31-2007

Please discuss the shock that people in mid-life face when they realize that they must care for both their children and their parents. No one ever told me it would be this way.

Sent by John | 2:40 PM ET | 10-31-2007

I"d like to see more on Fatherhood in America. It's rarely reported on at a deep level--the mainstream media mainly reports on the dads who stay at home to take care of the kids, the Daddy track, etc. Much deeper issues are glossed over (example: how dads' absences, after divorce, affect kids; the lack of black fathers in urban areas, etc. When a book called Fatherless America came out several years ago, outlining with studies and stats this huge issue, it barely got any coverage. It's time to put a spotlight on it.

Sent by Mark | 10:12 PM ET | 11-01-2007

Recently I hear of an opportunity for those who either have family posterity/objects/stories from a military experience that they would like to share with the nation. I am a first generation veteran who feels obligated to pass on my 'war trophies' and or photos to somebody. I experienced a very brutal and beautiful deployment in Baghdad, Iraq as a SAW 249 gunner (squad automatic weapon). I was involved in fire fights, however they were not fatal to me (obviously) and or my opponent. My memorabilia is in the form of Saddam's business cards, journal entries, mortar rounds, flags, pieces of military equipment that were destroyed in combat and video footage of cute kid's and ignorant soldiers. I ask myself if any of this will be important to others besides me; I feel that it will and that it should. I plan on having children; I have picked out there names, yet I ask myself; will they have a value other than emotion? Should they? I went AWOL to prevent a second deployment; I was surprisingly not punished for my actions. The only trouble I experienced was being blasted by my fellow soldiers for moving to France for those 6 months. I have so many opinions about this war - or as I refer to it an abortion of civil value. My fear is not the war in Iraq; my fear is the decision of powerful men who make decisions to place us into a war with Iran and or other neighboring countries. I would love to pass on my opinion and objects. I never want my opinions to go unheard. Regards, Sgt. Johnny Boyd Israelsen.

Sent by Johnny Israelsen | 9:31 PM ET | 11-05-2007

Hollywood and the news media are responsible for romanticizing gangster characters especially recently in American Gangster.
I thought the movie was great, but the follow-up interview of the "real" Frank Lucas by Charlie Rose elevated him to rock-star status. I really like Charlie Rose and his "grounded" approach to interviews and his inciteful questions, but this interview repulsed me. I suppose this disreputable character will attend the OSCARS, write a book, and all the pain, agony, and murders will be either be ignored or forgotten.

Sent by Pamela Wessel | 3:23 PM ET | 11-06-2007

In Portland Oregon we keep shedding Good Jobs to NAFTA,, McDonald's, K-Mart and Walmart do not leave.

How do Hillery and the Democrats evade addressing what they created ? They signed NAFA and the end of the Tax Base and middle class.

The lost pensions ($14,000 +) that were earned, but no vested, at JOBS.

When are Public Employees and Educators going on the NAFTA Compensation Plan ? and the New Work rules, change locations, room, and School District and U go to the bottom of compensation. (Start over)

Current NAFTA allows 18 to go get another Degree, which is MUCH different than a $60,000 wage package (low wages compared to Educators, Gov w all the fringes)

Sent by michael | 2:35 PM ET | 11-07-2007

Here it is November again. Time for Pheasant Season! (I waited 9 months for this, now it's finally here!!!)

The number of hunting stories is without end. (At least it's better than incessant whining about college sports.)

Although, I didn't knock anything down, it was a great opening day. Calm, sunny, friendly people (everyone on their BEST manners, because we are ALL armed to the teeth) just great time to be in Kansas!

Sent by Harold | 11:24 AM ET | 11-08-2007

I'm an exchange student in Sweden, and was a dedicated TOTN listener back home. Now the podcast is part of my daily routine to stay in touch with issues in America so I can discuss them with all my friends here who have questions for me nearly every day about what "Americans think" about anything and everything.

My building houses all international students, and on my floor alone there are 10 countries represented from nearly every continent. So our dinner time discussions are always lively, personal, and robust discussions about the culture, politics, and history of our homes. (The discussion gets even better with wine and when my Swiss neighbor surprises us with another wonderful box of chocolate...)

Currently my friends and neighbors want to know two things: how to use their Facebook account, and who will win the Presidential election. Most are for Barak Obama or Hillary Clinton, but I've come across some Ron Paul supporters as well. Their interest seems to be not in policy, but in the significance in the passage of one administration to the next. They just want to know who will win, and I can never really say much other than what I see on the news, the comments I hear on podcasts, and that it is too soon to tell.

If there are any others on this blog who are college students looking to have a foreign study experience, here's some crucial advice for the international friend-making process.: be well versed in politics! I There is nothing more embarrassing than a foreigner knowing more about your country's issues than you. And also, know your geography!

Sent by Becca | 6:22 PM ET | 11-11-2007

TON is missing an issue that is becoming the talk of the nation (Peak Oil). And the talk is also that NPR is avoiding an important issue -- Peak Oil. This is a catastrophe that is beginning now with high oil prices. Global oil production peaked in 2006; it is now on a plateau; and now production begins a terminal decline. There are no viable alternatives. This is documented with government and scientific reports at: http://www.peakoilassociates.com/POAnalysis.html

Sent by Clifford Wirth | 7:02 PM ET | 11-12-2007

I would love to hear a story on TOTN about the rise in popularity of the board game. Not the old 'classics' like Monopoly and Sorry and the like, but some of the newer games, mostly popular in Europe (particularly Germany) like Settlers of Catan, Carcasonne, Ticket To Ride, Wits & Wagers, Ra, Puerto Rico.

If you never heard of any of these you are missing out on some great fun with friends and family. Video games are great and all but they lack the person to person connections a good board game can make. And board games are not just for nerdy immature men, Sienna Miller, Keiira Knightly, and Sandra Oh have recently proclaimed a love for these new designer games.

It would be relevant around the winter holiday shopping season so people don't buy the 105th re-themed version of Monopoly that is the same game and start playing and just throw the board when someone doesn't win.

Sent by Christian | 1:48 AM ET | 11-13-2007

Here in Rochester, NY, the big local news is the redevelopment and revitalization of downtown. After years of decline, the downtown core of Rochester is finally starting to see new life being breathed into it, with new housing and businesses starting to emerge. Just a few weeks back, Paetec, a local telecommunications firm, has decided to relocate its corporate headquarters from the suburbs to downtown, which also will mean the tearing down of Midtown Plaza, a local landmark. (Midtown Plaza was one of the first indoor shopping malls in the country, but has fallen on hard times over the past 10-15 years, as has all of downtown Rochester.)

As Rochester's local corporate giants, Kodak, Xerox, and Bausch and Lomb all have downsized dramatically, the city is starting to finally evolve and adapt to a changing business climate. All of upstate New York has been hammered over the past 20 years, with the decline of the manufacturing infrastructure that was the lifeblood of many upstate cities. Some cities, such as Buffalo,(and all of Erie County for that matter.)have seen its finances taken over by the state, and so far, Rochester has been able to dodge that bullet. The biggest question facing Rochester is that of sustainability, making this recent change and growth consistent, and bringing a once vital downtown back to life, as well as an entire region of this part of upstate New York.

Sent by David Spiro | 3:50 PM ET | 11-14-2007

Urban science education - trying to educate children in lower economic areas of the urban setting on science in all aspects from basic "this is why you should not throw trash" to careers and everything in between. I have a friend who is working on this issue with a focus on minority groups as well. Fascinating subject because it involves so many other facits such as money, values, education etc.

Sent by Darcella | 3:45 PM ET | 11-15-2007

Across My Nation The Need for Affordable Dental-care-for Americans

Affordable dental care is becoming further from reality for those that are on a moderate or low income. The denturist profession offers an alternative and affordable denture care service that is offered in six states and across Canada as a safe, alternative denture care delivery system that is constantly being attacked and discredited by the ADA, the American Dental Association.

After graduating from an accredited denturist college and taking the Oregon state denturist board and licensed as a denturist; I come to Wyoming in 1992 and practiced as a denturist until I was shut down by the Wyoming Dental Board in 2006 because I was opening a satellite office in the next town of Worland, Wyoming 30 miles away.

This put a tremendous hardship on me as a single parent of eight children and remains as an unjustified and discrediting ruling by the Wyoming courts (due to the good ole boy mentality and not the language that clearly describes the definition of a dentist in the Wyoming Dental Practice Act). It has failed as a legislative issue in Wyoming and in a number of other states across the nation due to special interest lobbing by the ADA and state dental boards.

This continues to happen across the US due to the ADA's monopolistic grip on denture care keeping dentures and denture care service away from segments of society that are most in need due to economic reasons and poor accessibility. This includes the elderly, military veterans, the disabled and those living in rural areas.

Having access to affordable and available denture care is a necessary need for the wellness of ones health. Ill-fitting dentures and dentures in need of repair due to breakage and missing denture teeth are all too common place for denture wearers.

Gary W.Vollan L.D. Basin, Wyoming, www.wysda.org

Sent by Gary W. Vollan | 5:16 PM ET | 11-15-2007

What is the Chinese toys scandal going to do to this Christmas holiday revenue picture? Why aren't American toy companies pushing their wares with a huge "Made in America" banner? Maybe there are no more American toys. Why have we heard no stories on the economic consequences of a ruined Christmas? Has the govt asked the media not to ask that question for fear of a Depression?

Sent by jack saunders | 1:07 PM ET | 11-16-2007

David (and Amanda, and Johnny, and others),
Thanks for the comment, this is exactly what the talk of YOUR nation page is all about!
We have listeners and readers all over the country (and the world) and we want to hear what people are really talking about in your neighborhoods. (Hint: We're not looking for a topic that you want to hear a show about, just tell us what you're talking about with friends, at the dinner table, or around the water cooler... it doesn't have to be world peace or tax reform, if you're talking about Turkey dinners or that new series on Showtime, tell us that, too!) If I can borrow Amanda's opening line, just start by saying: "Here in (Anytown), the big talk is..." and go from there.
Obviously, we can't talk about everything on the show, but you can help us include the things you're really talking about.

Sent by Scott Cameron, TOTN | 2:27 PM ET | 11-16-2007

Facebook. MySpace. YouTube. The new generation of social media sites is replacing the traditional national media as the new source of entertainment and information--and "national water coolers" where the masses convene (MySpace alone has over 50 million users). I work as a Web 2.0 consultant in Silicon Valley and there's now a mad rush by corporations to get on the bandwagon, lest they get left behind. Even Baby Boomers are signing up for Facebook in droves (it's no longer just a college kids platform). The "Conversation Age" is already changing the way we connect and communicate, and it's just getting started. It would be interesting to take a look at this phenomenon--and its downside--from a higher level perspective. What does it mean for entertainment, education and the way people work, live and play? If you've already done this show--I missed it--it would be interesting to see more specifically how blogs are replacing traditional print media (NY Times, WSJ, etc) as the main news sources for millions of Americans.
Mark Ivey

Sent by Mark Ivey | 10:53 AM ET | 11-20-2007

Here in Detroit the big talk of the town is our branding of being the most dangerous city in America. The talk is about how fast top brass in law enforcement was able to defend it's self. Personally i am not surprised i don't think anyone here is. i wish there were more report's like this. I love the fact the challenge the status quo.

Sent by Michael John | 9:39 PM ET | 11-20-2007

2 points:

When I contemplated retirement several years ago, I concluded that we would have adequate income and that we wouldn't outlive it. But it's very easy to dream up worst case financial scenarios and conclude that you don't have enough wealth to cover your needs.

If you have a 7-figure income, you can't spend it, but you certainly can waste it (e.g. buy several Bentleys and a $1000 purse or pair of shoes.). You can be very rich and think of yourself as middle class (e.g. consider Warren Buffett's lifestyle). There's a big difference between not having to consider the price of anything you might enjoy and striving to make sure that you're seen spending big bucks (e.g . the Prada shoes).

Sent by Jim Phelan | 2:40 PM ET | 11-26-2007

As a clinical and forensic psychologist who treats victims of sexual abuse, I was disappointed to hear Neal, in the show about sexual abuse in the schools, broadly state, "Like a bad penny they (the effects of being sexually abused) never go away. They always come back."

Neil is feeding the paranoid hysteria about the damages from sexual abuse. In truth, the amount of damage suffered by sexual assault victims is very varied. The more people believe that it is a trauma from which a person can never recover, the more victims will suffer more than is necessary.

In my experience not only is the degree of damage caused by child sexual abuse very variable, but it is more effected by the parents' response and attitudes than by what actually occurred. If we care about victims, we will not universally catastrophize the experience and we will support each child's individual experience and feelings.

Sent by Dr. William Samek, Miami, FL | 3:09 PM ET | 11-27-2007

Last night NOVA had an interesting program.

After 9/11, president G.W. Bush, sighting the Constitution of the United States as his justification for wire taping without judicial over site, has ordered the Federal Security Agency (FSA) to violate the fourth amendment to that document. In other words, he has taken away our constitutional rights so that we can live free from terrorism.

The FSA in late 2004, following the presidential direction, concluded that terrorist were going to attack Las Vegas on New Years Eve. They warned the local authorities who spent weeks amassing tons of data on every visitor in Las Vegas at the time. No terrorist were found. However, at least one couple visiting Las Vegas to get married was caught in the net and their names have been added to the terrorist watch list for no good reason. So what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas - unless the FSA or FBI get a tip ease dropping.

Research about the terrorist threat was later found to be bogus. Like F.D.R. said, "All we have to fear is fear itself" - and a president who doesn't mind throwing the baby out with the bath water.

Sent by Sonny | 4:06 AM ET | 11-28-2007

As a protestant Christian who believes in the literal interpretation of the Bible as well as the generally accepted geologic age of the earth as per the greater scientific community. However, I do not agree with Teilhard's ideas about God working "through" evolution. I do believe that God created a universe with seamlessly built in age, not some homogeneous earth covered in a thin film of "reality" like a cast resin figurine. Mainstream creationists would have us think that God created a blank, boring, flat world and everything interesting about our planet developed in the past 10-20 thousand years. I simply don't believe in a God of such small intellect.
In short, I do not see a problem with believing in the literal 7 days of creation and a geologic history of billions of years. Is there anyone (of influence) in the contemporary scientific or religious communities that has expressed a similar viewpoint?

I would also like to hear some discussion on the validity and thoroughness of the body of evidence supporting evolution. The supporting evidence that leaks out to the general public is far from adequate to compel any reasonable scientist to accept the current hypotheses that describe the flow of evolution from primordial soup to present.
As a Christian I often find myself siding with the "evolutionists" over the "creationists" in debates on account of the latter's blind disregard for volumes of evidence that suggest that their time frame is grossly inaccurate. However, the claims that many creationists make against the greater scientific community such, as the questionable accuracy of geologic dating methods, seem to be worth taking seriously. What role, if any, is creation science playing in the larger scientific discussion? If none, why?

Sent by Tim Dickinson | 4:29 PM ET | 12-07-2007

The issue of illegal aliens (even the word immigration lends vicarious legitimacy) seems to be getting short shrift as an election issue: The candidates won't take a definitive stand, and the debate moderators seem leery as well. This country has specific policies on immigration, and we turn away legitimate applicants from all over the world. Yet there is a level of tolerance and even indifference for those who sneak across from the south. Illegal aliens are burglars, period. They are unauthorized, unlawful entrants who come for personal material gain, usurping the rights and resources of the nation. They are lawbreaking criminals who need to be held accountable under the laws of this country.
One of the recurring excuses I have heard across multiple NPR programs - and other news coverage, too - is that many aspects of the economy, and specifically agriculture, would suffer, perhaps even collapse without illegal migrant labor. We have only to look back about 150 years in the nation's history for the answer to that assertion: Southern plantation owners made the same argument about the need for slavey.

Sent by Gary Boltinghouse | 8:33 AM ET | 12-13-2007

I would like to hear a segment devoted to understanding and defining the Muslim faith. I often hear the terms Muslim and Islam used interchangeably, and I wonder if there is a difference. I also hear Muhammad referred to much more frequently than Allah: Why is this? Is not Allah the god of Islam/Muslims? What is the origin or genesis of Allah? Since Muhammad was the son of Ishmael, who was the son of the Old Testament's Abraham though his slave woman Hagar, is then Allah also the same as God (from the old testament)? If so, then Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all have the same God, differentiated mainly by persons and occurrences post Old Testament. Is this the case, or not? Intolerance flourishes in ignorance. Please deprive us of our ignorance!

Sent by Gary Boltinghouse | 8:53 AM ET | 12-13-2007

MedlinePlus (medlineplus.gov), the web site produced and supported by the National Library of Medicine, is the most up-to-date and best place for the lay public to look for accurate and timely information.

When visiting your physician(s), take a written document listing all the drugs & dosages you take, what your symptoms are, and how long you have had them. It will give your doctor the data needed to give you the best care.

Sent by Joan Zenan, Medical Librarian | 2:35 PM ET | 12-13-2007

Now that Baseball has been thoroughly discredited as a sport, can we please get Neal to stop devoting half his weekly airtime to it?

Sent by Sellam Ismail | 3:24 PM ET | 12-13-2007

In my household, and among nearly all of my friends,
the Big Issue (particularly in regard to next year's elections)
is not The War in Iraq.
All of my extended family and all of my network of friends
agree that regardless of how or why we got started in Iraq,
it is wrong and pointless to continue.
But the worst aspect of the war is that it distracts attention
(as well as divert a certain amount of the federal budget)
from domestic issues --
POVERTY, EDUCATION, HEALTH CARE, the ECONOMY
(as experienced by mainstream Americans "on the ground",
not by the high-fliers on Wall Street), JOBS, and so forth.
I hardly ever hear those issues addressed,
at least more than fleetingly,
either by the candidates or by the media.
What solutions are proposed by those on either side of the aisle
are largely driven by big business, not by the needs of real citizens.
The bogus Romney "solution" to the health-care problem
merited only a half of one segment of Science Friday.
I really would like to have NPR bring attention to bear on these issues.

Sent by Kenn Goutal | 3:25 PM ET | 12-14-2007

Prosperity gospel: Supporting what I've heard about community, the common good, and the middle way? And families need to be able to meet their needs or survival is all they can do. AND what about conspicuous consumption? If wealth leads more easily to conspicuous consumption and away from mindful consumption, we are also harming the planet for all human beings. Less consumption may be a positive contribution to helping the poorest in the world to live and to helping the planet survive by reducing global warming. My energy needs in 1000 square feet are a lot less than those of newer homes of 4000 square feet and on up. Aspen passed an ordinance that put the LIMIT on new construction of a private home at 15,000 square feet. Where is the stewardship of the earth as we also seek stewardship for the welfare of all living beings?
Thank you.

Sent by Maureen Lancaster | 3:41 PM ET | 12-20-2007

I would like to "correspond" with Catherine of California who was the last caller on todays segment on teen pregnancy. I agree with everything she said. I want to add: how can we countenance blaming teen girls for engaging in sexual intercourse when our consumer culture does everything it can to get them to reedal their boaies as sexulally appealing?

Sent by Mitsi Wagner | 3:15 PM ET | 12-24-2007

many years ago my little family became disenchanted with the traditional Christmas festivities. We decided to celebrate each Christmas the traditions of another country. This included menu, songs, rituals, whatever we could uncover that was specific or unique to another land. We have included Mexico, England, France, Italy, and even Iran, Afganistan and China. This year we are having a Dharma Christmas. Our focal point is not a tree but a prayer wheel, our food Indian. For us, this has been fun, eductional and inclusive of all world relgion and traditions.

Sent by Genevieve Rohan | 3:16 PM ET | 12-25-2007

The local story which struck me hard is that Cincinnati Metro Area's budget is $300 million for 2008. Figuring on $3 million residents, that comes to $100 per person. The Federal government blew something like $150 billion on just the Iraq War this year. Though these figures are very rounded for ease of comparison, 300 million residents in the US comes to something like $500 per person. Stop this madness, everyone!

Sent by Joe | 6:00 PM ET | 12-25-2007

Denturists and American People in Need vs. American Dental Association Policies

The balance of the working relationship between the dentist and denture technician has always tipped more favorably on the side of the dentist than the denture technician.

A number of denture technicians moved forward in the profession by becoming denturist because of the expectations of being the dentist's counter-part but rarely with the denture technician receiving the deserved gratitude of those expectations.

Instead we worked long hours (not by choice), didn't get paid for those long hours which usually involved remakes due to error of the dentist or assistant doing procedures.

Our jobs as denture technicians were usually held over our heads for us to jump, reach, and grab at, while the dentist decided which dental lab they would use if and when we complained or insisted that things be done differently and maybe even getting paid for the 60 or 90 day past due lab invoice.

As a denturist I enjoy my work. I enjoy the working relationship of a chosen dentist or oral surgeon for referral services for my patients.

The good fight is not with any current or past dentist. I???ve worked with some good dentist as a denture lab technician and as a denturist. A good majority of the dentist would rather spend their chairtime in restorative and cosmetic dentistry not dentures.

So what's the problem? Corporate ADA. The American Dental Association???s big money politics, waste and not being able to relate to the dental needs of the people. It???s nothing different than what denture technicians and denturist have always dealt with as the counter-part of the dental profession.

Corporate ADA has no faith in its ability to provide for the dental needs of the American public. Even as denture technicians, we have always known we we're better at being able to meet the denture needs of the American public and the American Dental Association knows it. We are a thorn in ADA???s side and they want us gone.

The American Dental Association has in place, a number of build up and award programs for dental lab technicians for good reason and then it supports outsourcing of dental prostheses. Something???s not right with this picture.

It???s one thing to pay pennies to the dental lab technician for dental prostheses but yet another thing to outsource the work away from the mom and pop dental labs across America.

More and more people are doing without dental care because of ADA's policy making. They spend 10's of thousands of dollars for meetings to establish these policies that are leaving more and more people without dental care.

The policies discriminating against the economically disadvantaged Americans are those that are directed at stopping denturist, dental health aides and independent practices for dental hygienist. The American Dental Association sends money to state dental associations with expectation that the state associations will uphold ADA's policies but in turn it's a negative reflection on the state associations because their using the money for reasons other than meeting the dental needs of the people of the state.

The American Dental Association could better serve the dental needs of the American people by giving the dental hygienists the freedom of their own boards and independent practices so they can better serve the preventive needs of the American people by serving in the area of public health.

Corporate ADA can take the necessary steps to establish boards for independent practice of the denturist profession and the dental health aides across the Nation. This would free up dentist to use their eight or more years of schooling and experience in extensive restorative dentistry and specialty areas of dentistry.

It would direct the need for more money for education for all areas of the dental profession. This would create more qualified doctors and less of the unethically inclined dentists that are in practice today due to dental school programs one size fit all level of the DDS degree.

Dental health aides or therapist would serve the same level that a physician???s assistant serves today. The American Dental Association would organize and regulate dentistry and associated professions across America to better meet the dental care needs of all people.

People need to get on the American Dental Association internet site and do a watch dog of the programs in place and see the money that???s wasted. It???s disgraceful, with the number of Americans doing without dental care. You???d think with all the money, power, and intellect the American Dental Association has it would do things differently.

Please consider this critique of corporate ADA.

Thank you---Gary W. Vollan L.D.
www.wysda.org

Sent by Gary W. Vollan | 1:41 PM ET | 12-29-2007

I was glad to hear that people are paying attention--more attention than the media--to the issue of anti-biotic resistant infections. I believe this is because people's own families have been affected terribly. In 2003, my sister suffered from toxic shock, and it cost her both legs and the tips of her fingers. She was in a coma for 40 days, and her life will never be what it was before. This may not make the front page until someone famous dies of it, but in the meantime, many many families are being affected.

Sent by Dennise C. Brown | 2:44 PM ET | 12-31-2007

Messers Shore and Conan not being able to come up with the name of mainstream media reporter who has been hammering the Bush Administration on lack of candor and the overall conduct of the Iraq War is surprising. Just look to Keith Olbermann on MSNBC - please!

Guy VanderLek
Wilmington, DE

Listening to TotN via KUAZ, Tucson web feed.

Sent by Guy VanderLek - Wilmington, DE | 3:25 PM ET | 12-31-2007

my recent self help listenings (on books on tape/cd):
Marianne Williamson
Wayne Dyer
Eckhart Tolle
Newest: Ken Wilbur, "Kosmic Consciousness", who has "brought together the world's far-ranging spiritual teachings, philosophies, and scientific truths into one coherent and all-embracing vision..."
My point: my search keeps leading me to deeper and deeper levels of spiritual insight in hopes of self-improvement/efficacy/growth! Actually putting into practice is another story!

Sent by Andrea Patten | 3:55 PM ET | 01-01-2008

A caller confused about the Iowa Caucus mechanics was asking for information on how they are run and whether they are ever broadcasted. Every major candidate has an explanation of the process on their website, CNN's Jeffrey Toobin did a nice piece that is posted the CNN website, and C-Span intends on broadcasting the real thing from 3 democratic and 3 republican caucus sites on January 3rd. The DM Register's website is also a great source for information on the Iowa Caucuses.

Sent by Chris (a caucus-going Iowan) | 2:25 PM ET | 01-02-2008

The talk of my nation is the distribution of goods and services...looking at events from the perspective of 'who gets what; and why?".

Yesterday, on Morning Edition, Geraldine Brooks pondered various ethnic groups historical peaceful co-existence. Without considering and factoring in the distribution of good and services we will always come to an incomplete understanding.

For example, most people understand the Crusades as a 'Holy War' for Christian Europe to reclaim the 'holy lands' for religious reason and not as an attempt to gain control over trade that passed through the area.

In fact, while wars, conflict and strife are frequently couched in moral, ethical, or religious phraseology, we are just a dog chasing its tail if we fail to consider the money, the power, the distribution of goods and services.

Woody Allen had a joke that the lamb might lie with the lion (referring to the biblical passage), but the lamb won't get much sleep.

...when in actuality the lamb will lie down with the lion when each is satified according to their need.

Wars are about money, power and who get what; and why...that is the talk of this nation.

Sent by Moe | 3:09 PM ET | 01-02-2008

This comment is directed to the program on forgiveness that is currently being broadcasted on Talk of the Nation, Wednesday January 2, 2008. The broadcast discusses foregiveness and the positive health affects of such a lifestyle. I would like to bring to light the fact that Alcoholic Anonymus has been around for many years and two of the foundations for the program are the concepts of gratitude and forgiveness. I think the results of AA are evidence of the power of those concepts for the addict. I am amused that your experts think they have some up with something new.

Sent by Danna Dal Porto | 3:43 PM ET | 01-02-2008

Hello Neil & Talk staff, Love the show. The indigineous of the world are rising up to demand the rights earlier denied to them. I understand that there's a credible action being taken against the US government involving the reclaiming of a considerable amount of land in several states. I hope that the recognition of human rights will continue to make our & others' national agendas in the coming decades; the atrocities have been unforgivable. But - but - but - does this mean I have to leave My precious home / real estate? This is a classic struggle.

Sent by Rebecca | 4:29 PM ET | 01-02-2008

What is the RIAA position on this situation. I own the old vinyl LP version of an album (or cassette tape). I download the mp3 version of the same album. Is that allowed?
How about gaining the "right" to a CD for manufacturing cost. Meaning. I already paid the 'royaly' fee with the 1st purchase, is there a way to get a "new technology" version of the same album without having to pay the royalty fee again?

Sent by Lewis Getschel (get-shell) | 2:46 PM ET | 01-03-2008

I would love a discussion on the Ethics and Effects of Eating. I'm a food writer, cooking instructor, and personal chef and it's a topic moving into the main-stream as we face more food recalls, more imported/off-season produce, a farm bill devoted to rewarding factory farming, and the roots of our nation's dietary woes.

Sent by kevin weeks | 3:48 PM ET | 01-03-2008

I was watching CSPAN this evening to get a look at the caucus process. What really stood out to me, coming from San Francisco, is how 'white' the population is. We really need to reconsider this position of prominence in the political decision making process that Iowa has. Yes, it is a tradition to have them kick off the folly of our Presidential Parade...but, it should not be a folly and it really seems to me that it is. They certainly do not represent the citizens of my state. My state is a lot larger than theirs. We should really reconsider

Sent by Erin Lee | 8:33 PM ET | 01-03-2008

What is change and what does experience have to do with change? First, if one is to identify where they are going in their change they must first identify what it is that we wish to change from? And if we can identify what we wish to change to how are we to change if we do not understand our , own personal or collective history? To change does not require experience - experience is the process of change. experience when electing a new president is unimportant and so are early promises in a primary. The single factor to effective change is to take a quantum leap from the instinct that a black man might have more experience than we as whites could know - and perhaps this marginalization and this history which Obama and Edwards both possess is the fact that they are exactly who they represent which is a great relief in these times when reality is always skewed by the media or some branding agency without morality.
I think Obama and Edwards are appealing because they have nothing to do with the past association to the very people they are representing to overcome.
I say rock and role to Obama and Edwards - and a new world order minus the old world orders tired and worn out war merchant mentality. We, the people, want change - and we the people will help make this change - that is what is so appealing about the process of Obama and Edwards - they are creative, freeing us from this horrible past which we have had to live for much longer than 911.

Sent by diane t. lincoln | 3:22 PM ET | 01-07-2008

I for one think that Hillary will do the best job as presdent. History ALWAYS REPEATS it's self, so we have never had a woman presdent. Everyone are saying that they don't want another Clinton in the white house. I want to be able to tell my grandkids that i tried to change history by voteing for a woman presdent instead of another man . Yes another man just a diffent color.

Sent by juanita | 1:58 AM ET | 01-08-2008

I suggest you review the Sibel Edmonds story especially in light of last Sunday's London Times' article. A survey of why the US media has sandbagged the Edmonds story would also make a good follow up.

Sent by tritumi | 7:21 AM ET | 01-09-2008

I don't understand how people can say that Hillary almost crying in public won her New Hampshire. In my opinion, as a woman in the workplace, showing emotion opens the door to several stereotypes associated with woman. This could by why a woman in her position cannot afford to relinquish herself to these stereotypes. I only hope her display was real and not a last attempt to relate to voters.

Sent by Marinda Griffin | 12:51 PM ET | 01-09-2008

We in Michigan are not pleased that the Democratic primary will not include Barak Obama. Why weren't Iowa and New Hampshire censurd or otherwise punished for moving their primary and caucus so far forward? Why do they alone anjoy such sway? They are both among the smaller states (population wise), so where did they gain this privilege? The primaries and caucuses should all be on the same day to avoid favoritism and precedent. Why we're at it, let's eliminate the Electoral College!

Sent by Paul | 2:43 PM ET | 01-09-2008

Like thousands if not millions of other homeowners, I would love to make major energy saving modifications in my home, but can't afford the cost of most, even though they would save me money later. Here is a huge unfulfilled demand at a time when we must conserve energy. The economy is dragging, especially in manufacturing. If government began a New Deal with investment to ignite energy saving technology and assist homeowners (and business?) with the cost, wouldnt that be a huge investment toward taking us into an oil-free, thriving economy?

Sent by Jenny | 2:49 PM ET | 01-11-2008

War surge. I heard this morning on WBUR Boston that a Pentagon spokesman stated that the current request for additional troops in Afganistan was not a surge because it was a "one-time-deal". What were Americans told about the war surge in Iraq if not that it was to be a "one-time-deal"? My only reaction to this news report was that this was the worst case of "if you are not outraged, it is only because you are not paying attention" I have heard in my lifetime, and everyone I have discussed this with agrees. If this does not deserve coverage on talk of the nation, it is only because even NPR is too collared by the oppressive current administration.

Sent by Jon Allen | 9:25 AM ET | 01-16-2008

EXTREMELY disappointed at your War on Drugs segment. I'll listen again to the podcast... In the meantime, while you TOUCHED on one of the biggest problems - focusing so heavily on Mj USE while the REAL drug problems of this country are Meth and prescription drug ABuse, it was wholly insufficient.

The 'war' has done little or NOTHING to address the problems of drug ABUSE in this country, while corrupting (especially rural) law enforcement, increasing violence 10-fold, INCREASING the price of 'recreational' drugs like Mj & LSD & Ecstasy while DECREASING the price of truly harmful drugs like Cocaine & particularly Meth!! It's BS, and until our policies are based in FACTS & TRUTH, we will remain here - wasting Billion$ while accomplishing little EXCEPT creating a Drug War Industry which is invested in NEVER solving the problems, else they will LOSE THEIR JOBS!!!

Sent by Larry | 3:52 PM ET | 01-16-2008

Paul,
Obama was not on the ballot in Michigan because he obeyed the rules set up by the democratic party, which Michigan ignored, as did Clinton. I feel as you do, that this was unfair, since it gives the impression that Clinton has a majority of support there, when many people may have simply voted for her simply because she was the only choice. I think that this looks sleazy on her record, and I hope that it gives her the dubious reputation that such an act deserves.

Sent by Jon Allen | 4:08 PM ET | 01-16-2008

I would like TON to consider starting "a conversation". e.g. What would it look like if you started out with "what's your idea of how we should stimulate the economy" and have it run longer than one day. You could supplement it by having an online poll for ideas of the day. I personally would like to see the money put into infrastructure to bring back jobs to the US. I'm appalled at how few jobs - read jobs that could support a single person even minimally - are available for my grand and great grandkids. I love your program but get frustrated that I a topic I'd like to get involved with is over before I can respond and have people respond back. In this way, you could get to be more in depth which would set you apart from World have your Say. One last note, did you ever do a companion piece to male circumcision? i.e. clitorectomies (sp).

Sent by Susannah Tenny | 6:20 PM ET | 01-23-2008

I have an important documentary about the homeless problem in this country. I'm using a very innovative way to try an get screenings organized all over the county. The film is called "Skid Row" and features Pras Michel of the Fugees, who lived as a homeless man on LA's Skid Row for nine days. You can see the trailer at http://www.skidrowthemovie.com and also you can see the contest we've started to help build demand for screenings. We're also going to create an educational/activist tool kit for people that want to screen the film and have discussions afterward. We have to start talking about this tragic situation. About 30% of these people are veterans that deserve to be taken care of, many are so mentally ill that they wander around till they die or get beaten to death. One of the biggest growing segments is single parents with children that just can't afford a place to live. I have great source material about all the major cities of this country that are totally unable to deal with this growing problem. I hope that you can be a conduit to start more conversations. I saw that in November, Sarah mentioned the film in her blog and I'm hoping that you would be interested in looking more closely at this.

Sent by Linda Nelson | 11:39 PM ET | 01-24-2008

I have a question: Why does that 'Publican spokesperson refer to the Democratic Party as the "Democrat Party"?

Sent by NW Carson | 2:34 PM ET | 01-28-2008

I think the fact that some candidates are not bothering with the states (and that also means the people) that cannot help them at this point in their campaign speaks volumes. To begin with I don???t believe that any state should be ostracized from participating in selecting our choice for the next president. Let???s not have a repeat of the last two elections that (in my opinion) the will of the people was ignored. The next President needs to be concerned with all the people, not just the ones that can further their political carrier.

Sent by Sharon | 12:18 PM ET | 01-30-2008

Money is needed to run for public office, but it???s the face time that wins any election.

Does anyone not find it strange that two of the larger states (Florida and Michigan) did not have any Democratic ???Face Time??? for the days/weeks/months before their disputed primary dates?

I believe the Democratic Party made a HUGE mistake by not allowing their candidates to give that face time to any of their possible nominees, and more importantly their party.

Florida decided the election in 2000 with their ???dangling chad??? debacle, and with it being such a swing state of independents or undecided voters, the Democratic Party will be hard pressed to win in November without Florida, and even more so without Michigan.

The fact of the matter is that after each party nominates it???s candidate for president, the Republicans have a huge advantage as their nominee has had significantly more face time in two critical states who???s electoral votes are more than enough to swing a national election one way or another.

I truly believe (as a Democrat) that McCain will be president because Florida and Michigan (along with the traditional Southern States) will be Red this November.

Sent by Scott | 3:36 PM ET | 01-30-2008

I read a disturbing AP article yesterday about Haitians living in such poverty and with such food shortages that they're eating "cookies" made of vegetable shortening and dirt. This story is making its way around my community of friends via the internet, and we have to ask: Why is this really happening? and What can we do about it? The websites I've visited tend just to ask for money, but I'm wondering if there's anything else to be done. It's particularly vexing to me as a person of faith. In what ways are we responsible for our "neighbors" since we now have the technology to be aware of them?

Sent by Katie Rankin | 8:32 AM ET | 01-31-2008

Campaign songs--what about "Man in the Mirror"? It's all about change and starting with the man in the mirror. Does the fact that it's a Michael Jackson track make it off limits for candidates?
At least TOTN could run it behind some campaign coverage.

Sent by nancy king | 7:14 PM ET | 02-04-2008

I would like to hear the opinions of experts regarding media spotlight and political success. We see much light cast on the current 4 front runners, but would things have been different if the media focused more on other candidates? This is in reference to candidates John Edwards, Ron Paul, Bill Richardson, etc.

Sent by Ya??l Ossowki | 4:59 PM ET | 02-05-2008

Since 1980 when I sang my first voting song outside of the Baltimore Convention Center during the Anderson/Reagan debate, I have written songs of civic responsibility. Go to votingsongs. com to hear my songs that are written to encourage all Americans to participate in the voting process.

Sent by Patrick Simpson | 8:59 AM ET | 02-06-2008

From Wichita,
Many of us are registered as Republicans as it is the only way to participate in primaries here in KS. The Democratic caucuses last night are the first in many years. Great to see that there really are Democrats in this state. We sometimes feel very much alone in KS politics.

Sent by Yvonne Michaud | 2:21 PM ET | 02-06-2008

I'm a 21 year old democrat in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Last night the turnout in my area (which is not actually on the campus) was overwhelmingly young, and the college kids were out there in the cold, like I was, to vote for Obama. Minnesota, which may have been as strongly anti-Bush and anti-war as any state in the country, had 55,000 total Democrats come out to caucus against him in 2004. Obama more than tripled that number by himself last night. This tells me that Obama is the kind of people who gets people to come out FOR him, instead of AGAINST someone else.

Sent by Mike Mullen | 2:29 PM ET | 02-06-2008

As a teacher of History and Government, I must observe that Super Tuesday lends legitimacy to the concept of regional primaries. Divide the nation into five regions, have a lottery during the Rose Bowl to select which region will vote first and allow only two weeks between regional primaries. This would eliminate the "front loading" which has stretched a year in advance of New Hampshire. Finally, tie the delegates to the congressional districts, let the state winning candidate have the two senatorial votes for that state. This would compact the primary season into ten weeks and make it equally meaningful for all.

Sent by Jeffrey L. Heady | 3:20 PM ET | 02-06-2008

As a Los Angeles pollworker who with 3 teampollworkers assisted 478 WLA voters, we did NOT know anything about that "bubble" [item #6] for nonpartisans to include to be able to make a Democratic candicate vote. I also went to the 2 hr training and NO mention was ever made of this requirement. No coordinator nor anyone knew to ask about this "requirement" only learned much too late to do any good to all those who filed that ballot.

Many voters, as I do, will feel "cheated" for- later only - being told they could vote & count and now our vote & efforts to do so are being rejected.

Q= Who do we shout at and activate to change the rules for the Registrar's mistakes? Who can correct this error for these voters by sidestepping the error/dismissal of votes instead of just belatedly announcing the mistake ?

At poll the lines never stopped all day long Tues from 7 am to 8 pm, with a long & continuous flow of intense, active voters: some were brought in wheelchairs by their caretakers, some walked slowly with wobbly canes,
one Latino man who shouted "I voted! First Time" and beamed magnificently, some demanding persistently to vote Republican when rules said not if they could not unless so registered, and some coming in actual tears at 7:58pm pleading to be allowed to do her provisional ballot and then offered to help clean up to make up for arriving [almost] late.

Impressive voters. Dedicated people. Vitally insisting on making their own decisions for the next 'change' from this current & prior adm.

And these wealthier voters were consistently courteous, personally thanking us for the 'work you do,' with eye contact, smiles, grateful connections for this event we had together. I had a great long tiring day and will do it again for the gift of all the appreciative voters who give back more than the services we give them. This is why I love living in this USA.

Sent by Maria Joy | 4:50 PM ET | 02-06-2008

My mother has told me most people tend to lean further to the right as they get older. She is a staunch conservative and always tells me to wait until I'm older and I'll understand why. I was wondering if you could comment on that...

Sent by chad | 2:13 PM ET | 02-07-2008

I dont know much about this topic but when a person votes is it really counted or is it just the Electoral vote that really matters do the electorates follow a particular states voting trends or is there ability to give there electoral vote to who ever they wish and how do you get to be an electoral voter is it just prominate people ie (With Money) or can a regular person get one of these So I guess does my vote really count?

Sent by Chad | 3:07 PM ET | 02-08-2008

What my family, friends, and I are--and have been--talking about(raging about, actually), for well over a year, is the Democrats' stubborn refusal to initiate impeachment hearings against Bush and Cheney. In view of the Administration's unprecedented and continuing record of furtive secrecy, illegal spying, habitual lying, and obstinately refusing to answer all questions, q\we are dismayed that our weak-kneed Congress continues to ignore the Administration's wanton, do-as-I-please behavior!

Most of the people I talk to are more than frustrated; they're deeply distressed! Most of my friends believe that this Congress, by shirking its investigative responsibility, has made an absolute mockery of the U.S. Constitution and has failed the people it claims to represent. Nearly everyone in my circle of progressive friends (mostly over 65 and in No. Calif.) has re-registered as "Decline to State," because of the Democratic Party's abandonment of them and of the noble principles that Party once stood for. We're all profoundly disappointed--each of us hurt, sad, and outraged by the Party's betrayal of us, and we believe that the Founding Fathers would be so too, were they alive today to see what's become of their dream for our once-great nation.

Every patriotic American needs to understand that Congress's present inaction sets a terrible precedent for the future by giving all Presidents yet to come-- however self-serving they may be, and whatever their personal disregard for our nation's laws and for the liberties they promise us --free rein to do whatever they please, with absolutely no accountability whatsoever. It's a tragedy, and it needn't be that way!

It's not enough to hold our collective breath, counting off the days and hoping that when a new Administration comes in next year it will fix things, will make our damaged country okay again; such serious abuses as have occurred cannot just be brushed aside; they won't just go away. They need to be addressed, investigated, and answered for -- even if after the fact.

All of us who love our country and respect its great heritage ought to be keeping vigil at the bedside of our failing Constitution. It's been deeply wounded, maybe mortally so -- by the administrative and legislative branches in turn, and its recovery is in serious doubt if Congress neglects its duty to come to its aid.

History will remember Congress's failure. It will record that as the American dream lay dying, a disloyal Congress turned its back, making a grave and terrible mistake. As the result of Congress's inaction it is likely that our beloved country, if it survives, will continue to suffer well into the 21st century if not longer.

Sent by Jeanne C Thomason | 6:47 PM ET | 02-08-2008

How about covering the potential VP candidates? Minnesota's Governor Pawlenty has been OWNED by the hardcore rightwing, defunded our infrastructure, and is suddently trying to reconstruct himself as an environmentalist! His policies made it possible for a major bridge to fall down, for an ethanol plant to drain groundwater and begin to drain the Minnesota River - but all we see on the news is his young-ish smiling hockey-player face - the potential #2s should get scrutiny before we're stuck again -

I find myself being asked to support Senator Obama by people who can't tell me what committees he's on, or what legislator he has sponsored: all they know is he reminds them of JFK and Jimmy Carter - the GOP offers us a war hero and a couple of cute governors - where is the investigative reporting???

Sent by Jane E. | 2:40 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Chad, as you begin to work hard and pay out so much of your earnings in taxes, then learn of the corruption and wasteful spending that occurs in government, you will begin to long for smaller, limited government. Individuals are responsible for themselves (those who are helpless should be cared for by family and church, with an emergency safety net for extreme cases). Conservatives want to conserve morality in the culture. Morality promotes a just, peaceful civilization. Joke I once heard: a conservative is a liberal with two teenage daughters. When you get older, you WILL understand.

Sent by Diane | 12:14 AM ET | 02-12-2008

I have a comment regarding our economy, and the current recession we are experiencing.
Has anyone looked for a correlation between our increased aversion to immigration, both legal and illegal and the current recession we are experiencing?
Recently my aunt wanted to come visit my mother in Miami from Colombia. She had a visitor's visa given to her many years ago, that never expired. She visited the consulate to make sure it was still good. Her visa was cancelled, and she was told she would not get a new one because she wanted to come live in the US.

She decided to visit her son in Canada instead, and that is were she is spending her hard earned money.

How many more millions of people are spending their cash in other countries? Panama is now a popular vacation spot for South Americans that are not given visas to visit the US.
Even illegal immigrants contribute to the economy by renting houses, buying food and clothing, going to restaurants, movies, etc. Never mind the regular visitors whose sole purpose is to vacation and spend their money.
In my opinion, one way to quickly stimulate the economy, is to open the gates just a bit, and let visitors come in.

Sent by Isabel Roldan | 2:03 PM ET | 02-12-2008

The housing market forclosure in Cleveland Ohio is on the rise. Property values our dropping weekly. If a house is empty even for a few days- thieves break in and steel the copper pipes or strip the alluminun siding.No one sees a thing.Good paying jobs are non existent.I might lose my house too, after 17 yrs.I want to cry!

Sent by Laura Trickey | 2:32 PM ET | 02-12-2008

I wonder if we are being to hard on our selves the irresponsible borrower and home buyer and to easy on the financial institutions in our society. Is it not worth noting that most Americans have been conditioned since children to believe that bankers are the conservative frugal types that keep the fly by night dreamers in check and if this is true and a "banker" tells you you are worthy of this loan and this property is worth what you are buying it for why would you necessarily question their wisdom. It is also worth noting that those dreamers who thought they were being let into the American dream of their own home are being woken up now.

Sent by marty | 2:49 PM ET | 02-12-2008

I live in St.Louis county where the Mass murders in Kirkwood took place and I feel it would be great to address racial issues and healing since once again racial issues have boiled over and has ended in blood shed. There is a REAL problem in this community many mock Kirkwood saying the city thinks it's perfect but weve been in national news over horrendous issues 3 time in the past 2 years.

Sent by Angela | 11:30 AM ET | 02-13-2008

This is a new blog to help the elderly stay in their homes and live in dignity. Please check it out.

http://gooddesignagewell.wordpress.com/

Sent by HD | 12:13 PM ET | 02-13-2008

When i read Donna Brazile respond regarding the role/or if the super delegates decide the nomination she will resign fron the DNC i made my decision not to go out and vote anymore for the democratic party and i will change my party registration from democrat. I am a black male who have always admire Donna's leadership and role in the democratic party and for her to take such a controversial negative position and verbally expressed in the public media, it tells me that the democrat party and it's leadership has tremendous problems. Donna is just showing her personnel emotions and her statement clearly tells me she is supporting Senator Obama and when i look at the vedio, she seems to have an angry personnal angenda, rather than having a leadership meaningful role in the DNC. Her comments and position should have been one that try to educate the voters, keep them on track about the real issues and also offer some healing or togetherness concept which the party badly needs. I choose not to vote for Senator Obama because i watch all of the debates leading up to the priamries and i was disappointed in his performances. I was impressed with Richardson who dropped out early. I am a registered democrat in the state of Florida and i voted for Hillary. Should the citizens of Florida VOTE COUNT TOWARDS THE Democratic nomination for president? I wonder how Donna think Floridians feel about this issue and why should i vote for Senator Obama if he becomes the nominee in the presidential election if my vote did not count in the primaries? No No No ... Florida is a key state to win the presidential election. I expected a better and a more quality leadership unbiased role from Donna as a key leader in the DNC. Thank you.

Sent by Elvis Caines | 12:39 AM ET | 02-14-2008

Neal,
The shootings at Northern Illinois is troubling, but do you see a pattern here? From 1998 it was middle-school students in Arkansas, we moved through Jr. and Senior High School (Columbine, etc.) and now we are seeing this same group of young people in college (VTech, LSU, etc.) right on through to grad school in N. Ill.
Could there be some link, some specific event, that this age group of young people experienced that could cause this expression of violence?

Sent by Carl McCormack | 12:01 PM ET | 02-15-2008

CNN recently had an article on a comparison of racism vs sexism. The article made the point the the former is taboo and the latter is tolerated. I would like to hear more discussion of the media bias against Hillary Clinton. The woman-bashing is deafening but there is no public comment against it.

Sent by Susan Mayhew | 8:46 PM ET | 02-15-2008

Like Anna, the subject of mid-wifery is interesting to me. I am a stay-at-home mother who birthed my only child by a mid-wive at a Savannah Hospital. The entire process was life altering for myself and my husband. Not simply the birth, but the entire pregnancy experience with the mid-wifes. As a Southern Mama any parenting, culinary, money management, and family oriented work is welcomed. My blog: http://www.christyhulsey.wordpress.com

Sent by christy in georgia | 11:26 PM ET | 02-15-2008

All I hear from Republicans in FL is that the strategy was: "get McCain secured", Republicans will vote now to Obama, "get rid off Hillary" then, "go after Obamas' records" and of course all Republicans will switch back to McCain and together with the Latin vote Republicans will "secure the White House again?" of course, outsmarting the Dems.. again!!!

Sent by Mia | 2:51 AM ET | 02-20-2008

NPR has over the past 8 years, steadily become a "VOICE" of the extreme right in this country.

Sent by kolla | 9:25 PM ET | 02-21-2008

I think a big issue is the situation of 20/30-somethings: balancing the incredible demands of building a "career" (education, debt, personal sacrifices, etc.) against "personal" choices like where to live, relationships, etc. I use quotation marks because I object to the distinction, which implies that "personal" aspects of life are less important or legitimate than "career" ones.

Sent by Margaret | 3:28 PM ET | 02-25-2008

Most people that I have been talking to here in Rochester, NY have been discussing how much we would like winter to end. We have not had a tremendous amount of snow, but it has been very cold and windy so everyone is bemoaning the fact of how high our heating costs are. Most everyone I speak to says that their heating costs have almost double since the winter of 2007. I find myself in the same boat, and it you don't pay the bill you can be immediately cut off. It is a very distressing subject.

Sent by Brian | 3:32 PM ET | 02-25-2008

Would like to hear a show about the constitutionality of trade treaties, such as NAFTA, CAFTA, etc. The constitution Article2 Section2 requires that treaties be approved by 2/3rds of the Senate. All have passed with only simple majorities.

Was there a constitutional amendment? Or did they pull a Clinton and decide these were "agreements" not 'treaties". Kind of like saying this was not "sex".

Sent by kerthialfad | 1:29 AM ET | 02-27-2008

There is considerable discussion among regarding Reagan's fiscal policy legacy. Yes, Reagan cut taxes, but increased spending, with the net result being that the nations publicly held debt increased from less than $0.6 trillion to more than $1.8 trillion by the end of his term. Of course Bush Sr was worse racking up more than $0.85 trillion in 4 years, and Jr even worse amassing in excess of $2.0 trillion through fiscal year 2007. By comparison the publicly held debt increased slightly more than $0.3 trillion during Clinton's 8 year term. Why is it that the fiscal policy starting with Reagan and adhered to by all subsequent Republican administrations that is best described as "borrow and spend" that is so admired by "fiscal conservatives" is viewed as more fiscally responsible than balancing taxes with spending as occurred during the Clinton years? Last year alone we, that is US taxpayers, paid almost $430 billion in interest on the debt. A discussion that actually examined the realities of fiscal policy and its implications for the financial health of this nation would be extremely beneficial, particularly given the disparate claims that are and will be made during this current election cycle.

Sent by David Rowley | 1:44 PM ET | 02-27-2008

When you ask whether voters are deciding on the basis of personality or issues, you are creating a false dichotomy. A third important factor is the question of who funds each candidate, or to whom each candidate is beholden. Many Democrats are upset with the party machine, the party that has been so averse to acting as a true opposition party. These Democrats see Obama as a much needed breath of fresh air to vitalize a tired old party establishment.

Sent by Johanna | 2:34 PM ET | 02-27-2008

I have recently transferred my 401K and IRA into primarily bonds and money market. I can easily switch it bsack. Is this a good idea?

Sent by Martin Pettet | 2:49 PM ET | 02-28-2008

So much talk revolves around how the Conservatives would rather vote for a Democrat than McCain. But how about those of us Democrats who would rather vote for a Republic than Obama should he win the Democratic primaries?

Sent by Sandy A. | 10:28 PM ET | 02-28-2008

Sorry I can't call, but my question has to do with a caller I just heard. Historically she saved, she's ready to spend, but she is not going to because the media just told her not to. The same with another caller ready to buy a car, but didn't. Another caller ready to put off some home remodeling and going back to school.

To me all of this says that the media is scaring people who are ready to spend into not spending. Isn't that creating a recession? These people don't actually have problems, but planning on having problems is creating the problems.

I would like to hear how the guest feels about this.

Thanks.
- Matt

Sent by Matt | 9:54 AM ET | 02-29-2008

On Saturday, March 8, people will gather at the site of the razed monkey house at the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, Wisconsin, to remember the ten year anniversary of the approximately 350 monkeys sold, killed, and given away by the University of Wisconsin, Madison in direct violation of three written agreements with the zoo that no monkeys from the zoo would be used in harmful experiments.

Ten years ago, when the eight years of broken promises was revealed, the story generated 200 articles in local and national press. To this day, no official has been held accountable for the hundreds of violations of the university's written pledges not to harm these animals, the Vilas Monkeys.

Sent by Rick Bogle | 8:54 AM ET | 03-01-2008

To the editor:

I am a 49 year old lifelong Democratic voter. I was thrilled by the 1990s economy and most of the policies. I like both of the Clintons.

What I question is this end run for a third term. We have term limits in place for a reason.

The US should not go down the path of electing the spouses of former term limited presidents, regardless of performance or party. It is a very bad precedent to set. Imagine a White House with a Mrs. Bush or a Mrs. Reagan !!

For this reason, rather than being a feather in the cap of women in general, a Clinton presidency demeans the feminist movement by suggesting that a female cannot obtain highest office without having initially been a "First Lady".

For this reason I will not support Mrs Clinton.

Mrs. Clinton, please do what is right for the country and step aside. We will all be better off: historically speaking, now, and in the long run.

Sincerely,

Christopher S. Turner
Anthropology Department
Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, Illinois

Sent by Christpher S. Turner | 1:28 PM ET | 03-03-2008

Superdelegates voting who could beat a potential Republican challenger even though that candidate may have lost the primaries is like sending the Packers who just lost to the Giants in the NFC Championship game to the Super Bowl because it is believed they would better Challenge the New England Patriots.....

Sent by Robert P. Kunsman | 2:08 PM ET | 03-05-2008

NPR!!! Ms. Ferrero is not balanced. I have stopped what I was doing in order to send this. She clearly has an inherent bias. I am so disappointed.

Sent by Sharon Sexton | 2:54 PM ET | 03-05-2008

On your Special News Report on the Texas and Ohio primaries, geraldine Ferraro said a Rebublican she knows voted for Obama. Well, some of my family members in Texas who are Republican voted for Clinton. My sister said everyone she knows in Lubbock is voting for Clinton. The implication is that Republicans there voted for Clinton because she is the easiest to beat. I didn't hear this viewpoint on your broadcast.(I am for Obama and live in Oregon.)

Sent by Marilyn Koenitzer | 3:05 PM ET | 03-05-2008

Where there's a will there's a way. By electing Hill we get back Bill. No president can serve more than two terms yet history can be made, Bill could be very helpful as "first Gentleman" to start fixing the economy. He did it before and frankly the tag team of Hill & Bill fighting against Terrorism and an awful economy is strong. And we havn't even talked about the VP. Wake up Wtoming and realize this great may be once in a life time opportunity

Sent by Douglas Papp | 6:09 PM ET | 03-05-2008

America wants more oil and they want it cheaper. So what, who doesn't?

The other day I heard that Washington has been pressuring OPEC (The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) to open up the spigot a bit more with the hopes of lowering the prices at the pump and easing the pressures on the U.S. economy.

OPEC's response (which undoubtedly represents that of the oil companies as well) was there was no need to pump more oil and that the run-up in prices is due to investor's dim speculations in the market and not fundamental problems regarding supply.

That last part is certainly true. When was the last time you heard of a gasoline station running out of gas?

Nevertheless, here's what I think OPEC was saying in between the lines, "We're not going to increase the supply because the price of petrol will go down and then we can't make as much money. So, as long as you stupid Americans maintain your unquenchable thirst for gasoline, you can stick it where the sun never shines."

And since we can't control our own gluttonous consumption of oil, perhaps what this country (and more importantly OPEC and the oil companies) needs is a good little depression that results in a radical drop in the demand of petroleum. Perhaps a little anarchy will follow in a select number of places adding a bit of well-needed humility here in "The Land of the Free (only free in the distance we can ride our bicycle) and the Home of the Brave (i.e., the self-serving, greedy capitalist)."

And maybe, just maybe after all of that, we'll finally get serious about alternative energy sources like wind, solar and tidal power.

Sent by Morgan Tyree | 1:24 PM ET | 03-07-2008

Many people I have spoken with, as well as myself, are wondering why everyone in the media continues to refer to Hillary's "win" in Texas when it is likely (once the caucus count is official) that he will end up with three more Texas delegates than she has?

Sent by Tereza Dempster | 2:30 PM ET | 03-08-2008

Yesterday I wrote on my blog njks.blogspot.com about the influence that Dungeons and Dragons has had on our family since the 70s, and right up to the present day. Now 6 of us, representing 3 generations, play World of Warcraft together on a daily basis. We live in northern Michigan, South Florida, Washington, D.C., and San Diego! We are truly a family of gamers, and it all began with D&D.

Sent by Nancy Steiger | 3:09 PM ET | 03-10-2008

I was shocked that today's conversation concentrated on female prostitutes, while not considering male prostitutes. Women are exploited, while men, aren't even considered. Male or female it's a choice to sell one's self for sex.

Sent by Nick | 3:26 PM ET | 03-11-2008

The answer to the last sitting Governor to resign from NY Governor is Nelson Rockafeller.

Sent by Neil in Sutton, MA | 2:12 PM ET | 03-12-2008

Ferraro's comments about Obama, the same can be said of Hillary.

The only reason Hillary is where she is right now is because she is a WOMAN. And the only reason she is where she is right now, is because she happens to have a last name of "Clinton". And the only reason she is where she is right now is because she is hiding behind the skirt of "Bill".

I could go on and on about Hillary about the only reasons she is where she is right now.

By the way, I am not black and I am a woman and I wish I had joined the I Hate Hillary campaign.

Sent by Connie | 2:51 PM ET | 03-12-2008

I listened to yesterday's Political Junkie portion of the show, and was a irritated by the fact that Susan Estrich was the person chosen to discuss the issue of campaign surrogates in the media. Ms. Estrich has publicly endorsed Senator Clinton, and is a friend of Geraldine Ferraro. I noticed a soft defense of the Clinton campaign and Ms. Ferraro throughout the segment.

The comments that were made by Ms. Ferraro are serious and disturbing, and deserve to be talked about in a balanced way, not deflected by friends of the offender.

Sent by Chris | 10:56 AM ET | 03-13-2008

Winter Soldier is happening right now in Washington. What do you think about it. online at ivaw.org

Sent by susan | 2:14 PM ET | 03-13-2008

Once again the US government bails out the capitalist and leaves the capital-less out on the streets. If there is a credit crunch why doesn't the fed cut the prime rate, so that the capital-less get some breathing room? The capital-less make mistakes in their sub-prime borrowing speculation and the government turns the other way. The capitalists make mistakes in their sub-prime securities speculation and they get 200 billion dollars, a discount rate cut and a federal funds rate cut. Give the capital-less a break. Its time to rise up against the Queen once again. Its Reganomics all over again. Supply side greed. If a tire shop does its job incorrectly, is the government going to come and bail them out. No. We the people have forgotten what the U in USA stands for. The question is how long will it last?

Sent by Irving Cabezas | 1:28 AM ET | 03-18-2008

Neil,
I have 3 bi-ethnic sons. I am Mex.Am and their father is black. All thru their young lives, both of us always told them that they were NOT half and half; actually they were totally proud of being fully both ethnicities. I do not say ???mixed race??? because I believe that there is only ONE HUMAN race; but plenty of cultures and ethnicities.
Thank you and keep up the good discussions!
Gloria

Sent by Glo Acosta | 2:38 PM ET | 03-20-2008

i would like to hear a conversation about real race issues. i am white and understand that this is just the color of my skin. if you listen to any one voice of a race, you will eventually hear them talk of their deep inbededd hatred of another race. the issue is not black and white, it ranges in all colors of skin. what we fail to understand, all of us. is that there is no such thing as a pure race. we are a mix of races where ever we are from, no matter how small our tribe might be. the problem is, in truth, a fear of being human and living with the blood under your skin as it is. this is the race we all belong to.

Sent by sean bascom | 12:21 PM ET | 03-21-2008

Neal's continued use of "the 4000" brought to mind the cheesy semi animated rendition of the battle at Thermopylae. When I think of Iraq I tend to lean more toward the Pyrrhic Wars.

Sent by James M McMurtry Jr. | 5:33 PM ET | 03-24-2008

Your female guest is quite absurd - all the other male candidates in the Democratic lineup have already conceded and Hillary is just going nuclear! As a loyal Democrat and someone who minored in women issues, this is an absurd argument and the REAL numbers just don't add up anymore for Hllary. She and her presumption of being president and the machine she has is not facing the math. As to vice president options, get real, after scorching the earth in the next few months, NO ONE is going to want her and Bill (cus he comes along) anywhere near the white house.

Hillary has tried so many times to change the rules - it's crazy and it makes me ANGRY!!! we will eat our young us Dems and lose the general public no matter how much they want change to the R's in NOV!

Sent by Bette S | 2:36 PM ET | 03-26-2008

My wife states that she would never vote for Clinton saying that she wasn't strong enough to stand up to Bill during his affairs how can we count on her to stand up on global issues to other world leaders!!!

Sent by Rudy Martinez | 2:41 PM ET | 03-26-2008

This is with Clinton is people say THE Clinton's so in truth Obama is running against a popular ex prez and his side kick. All women do not support Clinton and as your guest junkie said typically the 2nd candidate steps down for the good of the party.
Woman of a certain feel entitled because Hillary SAID she would be the Dem winner.
AfricanAmerican's were handed to Obama because of the Clintons
BTW ~ Blacks have in the past voted for Carter, Clinton(x2), Gore, Kerry in huge numbers while women (mainlly white women of 50+) seem to not have come together until a woman runs. All these years since geraldine they could have come clout to get at least another vice president; where were these women when black women ran for president?

Sent by Daly | 2:45 PM ET | 03-26-2008

CAROL GOTBAUM:

Her case epitozmies the blatant avoidance of responsibilitiy that p